Could we see a symbolic passing of the torch on Friday night as reigning Hyundai A-League champions Adelaide United visit big-spending Melbourne City?

It's only Round 4 but some will see this match as the title-holders taking on their obvious successors.

As the only club to have utilised all three marquee slots in the 2016/17 Season, City appear to have more firepower than any of their rivals, while Adelaide enter this match without a win this season.

But the Reds should have some confidence ahead of this clash as they have lost just three of their past 11 meetings with City, including a victory in the final round of last season to clinch the Premiers Plate and a semi-final triumph two weeks later as they closed in on their first championship.

Adelaide have looked to be on the right track over the past fortnight but have ended up with zero points from consecutive home games against Western Sydney Wanderers and Melbourne Victory, with the visitors scoring in second-half stoppage time in each match.

Even when City appear to be stifled they still find a way to hit the back of the net.

There's little doubt Van 't Schip's troops were less polished against Glory and Victory in the past week but they scored two goals in each match.

If it's not Bruno Fornaroli or Cahill, the likes of Fernando Brandan, Luke Brattan and Anthony Caceres can impact the scoreboard.

Amor will have to rejig Adelaide's attack again this week following Henrique's injury but youngsters Jordan O'Doherty and Danny Choi both impressed off the bench versus Victory and should benefit from the impressive hold-up work of Sergi Guardiola.

The Spanish striker is yet to get off the mark in the A-League but leads the Reds for shots on target (5) and fouls won (12) this season.

WHO'S BEEN IN THE SPOTLIGHT THIS WEEK?

Fernando Brandan. The feisty Argentine has scored in three consecutive matches for City, including their FFA Cup win over Victory, and has four goals in five games in all competitions.